Independent Christmas shopping in Liverpool

With Christmas just around the corner, Liverpool is a shopper’s paradise when looking for those unique festive gifts thanks to the city’s array of independent shops. From jewellery and records to books and art, uncover Merseyside’s independent shopping scene for something a little different and explore the best while Christmas shopping in Liverpool this year.

If you’re wanting to avoid the busy mainstream stores this Christmas, check out our guide to unique and quirky independent shops in Liverpool.

Liverpool’s Bluecoat

If you’re planning a spot of Christmas shopping in Liverpool, Bluecoat is a must. This 300-year-old building in the heart of Liverpool’s city centre not only offers a year-round programme of family-friendly events including arts, literature, music and dance, it’s also home to some of the city’s finest creative businesses. From ceramic wares to independent jewellers, handmade accessories to boutique clothing, it’s a treasure trove. Take some time to browse the Bluecoat Display Centre where you’ll find one-off handmade jewellery, prints and glassware. For music lovers, take a trip to Bluecoats, Probe Records, one of the best record shops in Liverpool. Despite its modest size, it’s home to a wide range of rare vinyl, as well as new releases and street press magazines. This little music haven is legendary in Liverpool and is a must visit when looking for that unique Christmas gift for a music-loving friend.

Independent Book Shops in Liverpool

For the literature lovers

Known as Liverpool’s Independent Quarter, Bold Street is home to the city’s largest collection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. With a whole host of unique and quirky gift shops, vintage boutiques and world foods to keep you fuelled for a day of festive shopping, Bold Street really does have something for everyone. While you’re there, make sure you check out News From Nowhere, one of Liverpool’s best book shops and a Bold Street favourite. If they don’t have what you’re looking for, take a trip over to Reid of Liverpool on Mount Pleasant - this treasure trove first opened its doors in 1975 and has more than 40,000 titles to choose from.

Vintage Clothes Shops on Liverpool’s Bold Street

For the vintage lover in your life

Looking for independent vintage clothes shops in Liverpool? Check out Resurrection in Bold Street. Founded in 1991, the store has grown from a small vintage shop in the Quiggins area of Liverpool to the two-storey store it occupies now. Always ahead of the curve, the shop has maintained a strong identity and quirkiness whilst keeping up to date with new stock and brands.

If antiques are more your thing, then head to 69A - a haven of collectables, art and even fashion. At less than 10 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street station, this vintage lover’s dream is one of the best Christmas shops in Liverpool for finding those hidden gems.

Arts & Craft Supply Shops in Liverpool

An artist’s paradise

For more creative gifts this Christmas, take a trip to one of Liverpool’s most loved art supply shops, Cass Art on School Lane. Less than a ten-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street, this art lover’s paradise has everything to get creative minds flowing this Christmas. If finished art is more your thing, Dot-Art Gallery is the place for you. With regular exhibitions featuring the work of local artists, their mission is to make art affordable. With prices starting from just £20, pop by and have a look for yourself if you’re looking for an arty gift this Christmas.

If you are a fan of local art then head to MerseyMade, an independent shop and venue which supports local craftsmanship. Any true Scouser will love the creativity and culture on display in this retail space – with gifts ranging from stocking fillers to big prints and more, MerseyMade has someone for everyone, providing they love the ‘Pool!

Liverpool’s Gin Journey & Wine Merchants

For the gin and wine lovers

Got a gin lover in the family? Why not treat them to a unique experience this Christmas and get them a gift voucher for Liverpool’s Gin Journey? This unique experience will see you guided through the city, visiting hidden bars and hearing tales of the boozy botanical trade throughout the eras, all with a delicious gin in your hand to bring it to life. Each tour includes five locations, five gin cocktails and samples and a chauffeur and ‘Gin Guardian’ to guide you through your day.

Perhaps wine is on the Christmas list instead? If so, then take a trip to R&H Fine Wines on Queen Avenue. Perfect for finding a gift for every budget and occasion, this unique winery is the sure-fire place to find the ideal gift for the wine aficionado in your life.

With so much on offer in Liverpool city centre and plenty of unique independent shops, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for gifts for your loved ones this festive season. However, our guide to Christmas shopping in Liverpool should certainly put you on the right track for present perfection! Plus, don’t forget that you can get up 65% off Northern trains to Liverpool when you book in advance.